Jammu and Kashmir Gears Up for Monkeypox Preparedness

Though no Monkeypox cases have been reported in Jammu and Kashmir, authorities reviewed public health preparedness. Health Secretary Syed Abid Rasheed Shah chaired a meeting, urging proactive measures, mock drills, and high vigil. Institutions were to ensure testing, isolation wards, and stockpile essentials at grassroots levels.

The Jammu and Kashmir authorities have ramped up public health preparedness in light of the Monkeypox threat despite no cases reported locally. On Tuesday, Health Secretary Syed Abid Rasheed Shah chaired a crucial meeting with officers following the World Health Organization's recent declaration of Monkeypox as an emergency.

Shah urged stakeholders to proactively ensure full readiness to manage any potential outbreak. Health institutions across the Union Territory have been instructed to stay vigilant and prepare for any exigencies. This includes conducting mock drills and training health officials for logistic and transportation challenges associated with potential cases.

Shah ordered the dedication of isolation wards across all health facilities and activation of testing, treating, and contact tracing centers, if necessary. He also stressed the importance of reviewing stock levels of consumables, disposables, and drugs to ensure preparedness at the grassroots level.